Sample Self-Study Report (SSR) for ABET Accreditation

Abstract:

Here's a sample Self-Study Report (SSR) for ABET Accreditation tailored to a university's engineering program. 

This sample includes typical sections required by ABET and gives a framework for customization.


Self-Study Report (SSR)

For ABET Accreditation

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Department of Mechanical Engineering
XYZ University
April 2025


Table of Contents

  1. General Information

  2. Program Educational Objectives

  3. Student Outcomes

  4. Continuous Improvement

  5. Curriculum

  6. Faculty

  7. Facilities

  8. Institutional Support

  9. Program Criteria

  10. Appendices


1. General Information

1.1 Name of the Program:
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

1.2 Degree Awarded:
B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering

1.3 Program History:
The Mechanical Engineering program at XYZ University was established in 1995. It has graduated over 2,500 students to date. The program received initial accreditation in 2002 and has since undergone regular review and improvement processes.

1.4 Contact Information:
Dr. John Smith
Chair, Department of Mechanical Engineering
XYZ University
Email: jsmith@xyzuniversity.edu
Phone: (123) 456-7890


2. Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

The Program Educational Objectives of the Mechanical Engineering program are to produce graduates who:

  1. Demonstrate professional competency and leadership in the field of mechanical engineering.

  2. Engage in lifelong learning through advanced degrees, professional development, or certification.

  3. Contribute to society through ethical practice, innovation, and sustainable design.

  4. Function effectively in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments.

These objectives are reviewed every three years in consultation with the Industry Advisory Board and alumni.


3. Student Outcomes (SOs)

Graduates of the program are expected to demonstrate the following outcomes by the time of graduation:

  1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems.

  2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions considering public health, safety, and global factors.

  3. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.

  4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities and make informed judgments.

  5. An ability to function effectively on a team.

  6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data.

  7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge using appropriate strategies.


4. Continuous Improvement

Assessment Process:
Assessment tools include direct assessments (e.g., course assignments, capstone design projects), indirect assessments (e.g., alumni surveys, employer feedback), and evaluation rubrics.

Improvement Examples:

  • Modified the curriculum to add a course in "Sustainable Engineering Design" based on alumni feedback.

  • Enhanced communication skills training through presentations in design courses.


5. Curriculum

Credit Hours: 132 total credit hours over eight semesters.

Core Courses:

  • Thermodynamics

  • Fluid Mechanics

  • Mechanics of Materials

  • Heat Transfer

  • Design of Mechanical Elements

  • Capstone Design Project

Capstone Project:
A two-semester team project focusing on real-world problems, incorporating engineering standards and realistic constraints.

Curriculum Map:
Each course is mapped to specific Student Outcomes, ensuring complete coverage.


6. Faculty

Number of Faculty:

  • Full-Time: 18

  • Adjunct: 5

Qualifications:

  • 90% hold PhDs in Mechanical Engineering or related fields.

  • Active research in renewable energy, robotics, and manufacturing.

Professional Development:
Faculty regularly attend workshops, conferences, and industry collaborations.


7. Facilities

  • Laboratories: Thermo-Fluids Lab, Materials Testing Lab, CAD/CAM Lab, Robotics Lab.

  • Software: ANSYS, MATLAB, SolidWorks.

  • Library: Access to major engineering databases like IEEE, ASME Digital Collection.


8. Institutional Support

Financial Resources:
The program is well-supported with a dedicated annual budget for lab upgrades and faculty development.

Administrative Support:
Includes a program coordinator, administrative staff, and support from the Dean's office.

Advising:
Each student is assigned a faculty advisor for academic and career guidance.


9. Program Criteria (Mechanical Engineering)

Curricular Requirements:
The curriculum includes principles of energy, mechanics, and materials. Design is integrated throughout the program.

Faculty Requirements:
Faculty members have backgrounds and experience consistent with mechanical engineering.


10. Appendices

  • A. Curriculum Flowchart

  • B. Course Syllabi

  • C. Faculty CVs

  • D. Sample Assessment Reports

  • E. Industry Advisory Board Meeting Minutes

  • F. Capstone Project Samples

Comments